You're Child Has Outgrown His Carseat - Now What?



Carseats are one of those things we have to have but don't have to throw away.  All it takes is a little time and creativity to see past the buckles and straps to find a new life for a dumpster-destined piece of plastic.

 

From special newborn carriers to booster seats and everything in between, we've said farewell to more carseats than I care to admit.  I only wish I had thought to consider an alternate option to disposal years ago. 



Make a bed for your favorite pet.  Before putting your carseat out on the curb for pickup, consider making a bed for your cat or (smaller) dog.  Infant seats or backless boosters are an ideal spot for a cat or dog to curl up for the night.  Be sure to remove or cut out the straps so your pet doesn't get tangled up.

Fly to the moon!  Have you ever wanted to go to space?  Let your imagination take you there!  Strap into your "rocket ship" and count down to blastoff!  Make it even more fun by building a rocket ship from an old box. 

Use it for your next child.  If your carseat is less than six years old and has remained accident-free, consider keeping it for another child.  Buying or making a new cover is enough to make it "new" again.  You'll be the only one who knows!

 

Turn it into a chair.  Ok, I guess it's already a chair, but think beyond the car.  Cut out or remove straps, add a pillow or blanket and BAM! Instant lounge chair!  I've set up a small reading area in our house using an old carseat, a book shelf and some other repurposed items; old pillows turned cushions for relaxing on, a bed made from rogue socks and other unloved materials, and a wooden bench turned table for snacking or crafts.

 

Repurposing can go a lot further than diverting things from the dump - it's also easy on your wallet! 

 

Do you have ideas to give an old carseat new life?  Share your thoughts in the comments!